Child Safety and Timber Windows

If you live in a period home with timber sash or casement windows, you may already appreciate their classic beauty and charm. However, when young children are in the home, these older windows can pose safety risks if not properly updated. Fortunately, refurbishing your sash or casement windows provides an opportunity to install essential safety mechanisms that keep your home both stylish and secure. Learn more about child safety and timber windows, and the options of how you can make your windows safer for children during the refurbishment process below.

 

Child Safety and Timber Windows: What can be done?

 

1. Window Restrictors for Controlled Opening

One of the simplest yet most effective safety measures is installing window restrictors. These restrict how wide your sash or casement window can open, which is crucial in preventing accidents where children could potentially fall out. During refurbishment, discreet restrictors can be added that maintain the window’s original aesthetic while offering an added layer of safety.

Restrictors work particularly well with sliding sash windows, as they allow ventilation while keeping the opening small enough to prevent children from climbing out.

 

 

2. Locks and Latches

Older timber windows often lack proper locking systems, which can make them easy for curious children to open. As part of the refurbishment, locks can be installed on both sash and casement windows. These locks are not only robust but also designed to blend in with the period features of your windows, offering modern security without detracting from their historical appearance.

You can choose from a variety of options, including sash window locks that prevent the bottom sash from being opened too far, or locks on casement windows that only allow for partial openings.

 

3. Toughened (often referred to as Tempered) or Laminated Glass for Safety

Replacing old glass with modern, safer alternatives like toughened or laminated glass is another childproofing solution during window refurbishment. Traditional glass can shatter easily and dangerously, but toughened glass breaks into smaller, less sharp pieces, reducing the risk of injury. Laminated glass, on the other hand, stays intact even when cracked, making it an excellent choice for family homes with sash or casement windows.

• Upgrading your single-glazed timber windows to double-glazing with laminated or toughened glass enhances child safety and also improves energy efficiency.

 

4. Improved Stability of Window Frames & Sills

Over time, timber window frames can deteriorate, leading to issues such as loose sashes or warped casements that can create hazards. Refurbishing these windows repairs, reinforces, or replaces the frames as needed to improve their stability. A properly refurbished sash window glides smoothly, and a sturdy casement window swings open and closes securely. This reduces the risk of sudden movements that could endanger children.

 

5. Safe Cord and Weight Systems for Sash Windows

Sash windows are often operated by a cord and weight system, which can become faulty over time, resulting in heavy sashes falling unexpectedly. During refurbishment, the cord and weight system can be checked and, if necessary, replaced to ensure smooth, controlled operation. This eliminates the risk of a falling sash injuring a child or adult.

 

 

6. Ventilation without Compromise on Safety

It’s essential to have proper ventilation in a child’s room, but leaving windows fully open can be risky. You can install secure sash restrictors on sash or casement windows. These features allow for air circulation without the danger of a wide-open window.

This way, you can keep rooms cool and fresh while keeping your little ones safe.

 

 

Why Choose Ventrolla for Your Timber Window Refurbishment?

At Ventrolla, we specialise in refurbishing sash and casement windows, ensuring they are safe, functional, and beautiful. Our expert team is well-versed in installing child safety mechanisms such as window restrictors, locks, and upgrading to safer glass options—all without compromising the character of your historic windows.

We prioritise both the aesthetics and safety of your timber windows, ensuring that your home remains a charming and secure environment for your family. Whether you need to reinforce window frames or install modern locking systems, Ventrolla offers the expertise to help you. We can assist you in childproofing your home with elegance.

Refurbishing your timber sash or casement windows is an excellent opportunity to enhance your home’s safety. By integrating modern child safety features, you can ensure your windows are as secure as they are beautiful, offering peace of mind and protection for your little ones.